The USS Pennsylvania (BB-38) was a United States Navy Pennsylvania-class battleship that served during World War II. It was the lead ship of its class and played a significant role in various Pacific theater operations.Commissioned in 1916, the USS Pennsylvania underwent modernization and upgrades in the 1930s, which included improvements to its armor, propulsion, and armament. It had a displacement of over 31,000 tons and was armed with twelve 14-inch main guns.During World War II, the USS Pennsylvania participated in several major campaigns and battles. It provided naval gunfire support during the Gilbert and Marshall Islands campaign, the Mariana and Palau Islands campaign, and the Battle of Leyte Gulf, among others. Its heavy guns were instrumental in bombarding enemy positions and supporting amphibious landings.The USS Pennsylvania also survived the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Although it was damaged during the attack, it was quickly repaired and returned to service.After the war, the USS Pennsylvania was used for nuclear weapons testing in the Pacific. It was ultimately decommissioned in 1946 and placed in reserve. In 1959, it was stricken from the Naval Vessel Register and sold for scrap.The USS Pennsylvania's service during World War II demonstrated the effectiveness and importance of battleships in naval warfare at the time. Its powerful armament, resilient construction, and ability to provide shore bombardment played a crucial role in supporting ground forces and achieving victory in the Pacific theater.Today, the memory of the USS Pennsylvania lives on through its historical significance and the valor of the men who served on board. It remains an important part of U.S. naval history and a symbol of the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought in World War II.
Measures 32 x 24.